Guides and insights that help you build, protect, and grow wealth.
From markets and savings to tax, cross-border planning, and alternative assets.
Deeds of variation offer beneficiaries a rare opportunity to redirect inheritances, mitigate tax exposure, and refine estates posthumously. Discover the nuances, considerations, and transformative potential of this often overlooked estate planning tool, as explained by lawyers Rachel Mayston and Sarah Nettleship of Thomson Snell & Passmore.
A collection is rarely just a collection. Ahead of our July Dura Curates panel conversation with Payne Hicks Beach at Tramp, we trace the people and the law that gather around the things we love most, from the first museum built by a Babylonian priestess to the divorce claims that can break a collection apart.
The wealthy have always paid for certainty, and for a century the most expensive kind came with a horoscope attached. From J.P. Morgan's astrologer to the colour-coded calendars of the Reagan White House, this is the real history of money and the stars, and what the powerful were actually buying.
For women managing complex estates, the question is rarely whether to have a will. It is whether the one they have still reflects the life they are actually living. Payne Hicks Beach's Verity Sherwin and Clarissa Ferguson on the trigger moments, the tax considerations, and why the conversation is easier than most people expect.
Getting engaged is not just the beginning of a wedding, it is the beginning of a financial partnership. From pensions and prenups to trusts, inheritance, and shared goals, the conversations couples have before marriage often shape the strength of the relationship long after the celebrations end. Here, a practical guide to building a financially healthy marriage from the very beginning.
Investment trusts are one of the most powerful vehicles for long-term wealth building, and share splits are one of their most misunderstood corporate actions. This guide covers what investment trusts are, why their closed-ended structure matters, and exactly what happens to your holding when a trust splits its shares.
Your UK pension is not a qualifying pension in the US. That single fact has a long tail of consequences, from how contributions are taxed in the year they are made, to what forms need filing annually, to how much you ultimately keep when you start drawing an income. Sarah Whitelaw, Partner at Buzzacott, who has spent over two decades advising US citizens and green card holders living in the UK, joined us to cut through it.
Separation changes your tax position in ways most people are not warned about. The timing of when you move assets, whether transfers are made under a court order, how your pension is treated in settlement, and what happens to your income tax filing as a single person, each of these has a direct financial consequence. This guide covers the key taxes that arise in divorce, including the CGT reforms introduced in April 2023, the stamp duty exemption most people do not know exists, and the pension inheritance tax changes coming in April 2027.
Inheritance tax is no longer a problem that belongs exclusively to the wealthy. It is increasingly a problem that belongs to anyone who owns a home in a city, has been saving into a pension for two decades, and has watched their investments grow. And from April 2027, it will become significantly more complex, as unused pension pots are brought into the taxable estate for the first time. The planning window is not infinite. Some of the most effective strategies require years to mature. This guide sets out what the rules are, what is changing, and what you can do now.
The Spring Statement contained no surprises. But for savers and investors, the changes already on the books are significant. A raft of changes announced in the October 2024 and Autumn 2025 Budgets are now either already in force or approaching fast, and the OBR's updated forecasts carry their own clear signals for mortgage holders, pension savers, ISA holders, and anyone with money in the markets. Here is everything that affects your money, with a clear action checklist for each topic.
The story of wealth in 2026 is not being written in headlines, but in the slow recalibration of markets, materials and assumptions. We welcomed Altus investment Management to share their Market Outlook for 2026, and to explore why easy conditions are giving way to a more exacting environment, and what that means for women thinking seriously about stewardship, resilience and the future of their capital.
Women are holding more wealth than ever before, yet many continue to navigate complex financial and legal systems without the education needed to fully understand them. As women’s wealth grows, so do the risks hidden within investment structures, legal agreements, property ownership, and long-term planning decisions. This piece explores why financial and legal education for women wealth holders is now essential infrastructure, shaping outcomes around control, protection, and intergenerational wealth, and we invite you to read, reflect, and share your perspective.
In prime property markets, finance is rarely straightforward. For high-net-worth individuals, wealth is often international, illiquid, and held across layered structures that sit far beyond the reach of conventional mortgage models. This article explores how bespoke property finance works at the upper end of the market, where lending is shaped around global assets, future liquidity events, and long-term wealth strategy rather than salary multiples. From asset-backed lending to cross-border structuring, it offers a clear view of how sophisticated borrowers navigate property acquisition in an increasingly complex world.
Organising your finances in 2026 is less a matter of discipline than of design. Over time, money has become more fragmented: accounts opened for specific moments, pensions accumulated across careers, investments spread across platforms. The result is rarely overt disorder, but a lingering lack of clarity and the sense that things are broadly fine, yet never fully in view. That uncertainty carries a cost. Financial organisation, in this context, is not about doing more, but about creating systems that make it easier to see what exists, understand what it is for, and respond calmly when circumstances change. Here’s our guide to getting your finances in order for 2026.
Women are now one of the fastest-growing economic forces globally, quietly reshaping how wealth is earned, controlled and passed on. Once positioned at the margins of financial decision-making, women are expected to hold nearly half of private wealth within the next decade, changing not only ownership, but the purpose and direction of capital itself. Join us as we explore the historical context behind that shift, the gaps that persist, and why the rise of women’s wealth may prove one of the most significant, and transformative, economic developments of our time.
Inheritance tax has entered a decisive turning point. In the wake of the recent Budget, long-standing assumptions about pensions, property, and legacy are being rewritten, reshaping how families plan across generations. In this Essential Series conversation, Rose Macfarlane, Partner at Irwin Mitchell, explores what the reforms really mean in practice, from the new caps on business and agricultural relief to the unexpected inclusion of pensions, and why the window for strategic action is narrower than many realise.
The equestrian world is a place where passion, heritage and high-performance meet, but behind the elegance of the sport lies a landscape shaped by complex legal, tax and planning considerations. From international movements of high-value horses to structuring equestrian businesses and safeguarding family estates, the sector demands specialist guidance. In this feature, we spotlight Forsters’ unparalleled expertise across the full equestrian ecosystem, offering insight into the issues that matter most to riders, owners, investors, and families building a life around the sport they love.
The Autumn Budget delivered today has reshaped the fiscal landscape with a clarity that can no longer be ignored. For the first time in years, the government has moved decisively on wealth, property and asset-based income, signalling a new era of higher taxation, stricter compliance, and reduced flexibility for families with significant holdings. Against a backdrop of global volatility and domestic pressure for revenue stability, the measures unveiled mark the beginning of a multi-year recalibration of how wealth is taxed, structured and transferred in the UK. For private-client families, entrepreneurs and cross-border households, the question is no longer if the rules will shift, but how quickly, and how prepared you are when they do.
As the FSCS raises its deposit protection limit from £85,000 to £100,000 on 1 December, many savers are asking what this change truly means, not just technically, but strategically. In this piece, we unpack why the increase is happening now, how the rules work in practice, and the risks clients should still be conscious of in a volatile market. From banking licences to temporary high balances, concentration risk to cash-rate complacency, this article offers a clear, calm guide to navigating cash protection with confidence in an increasingly uncertain financial landscape.
Born in a 17th-century coffee house where merchants met to insure ships and cargo, Lloyd’s of London has grown into the world’s most renowned insurance marketplace, underwriting everything from art collections and cyber risks to natural catastrophes. Yet behind its tradition lies a modern investment opportunity that’s quietly attracting a new generation of sophisticated investors. We spoke with Kate Tongue and Marnie Hunter of Argenta Private Capital to reveal how Lloyd’s offers diversification, inheritance tax advantages, and enduring appeal in an increasingly automated financial world.
The British property market is entering a period of realignment. After years of volatility, a wave of reforms, from the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act to new rental protections and digital transparency rules, is reshaping how homes are owned, bought, and sold. We explore the forces driving these changes, what they signal for buyers, landlords, and investors, and why 2025 may mark the beginning of a more transparent, accountable era for UK property.
For the first time in half a decade, the FTSE 100, the UK’s flagship stock market index, has hit record territory.
The headlines call it a “five-year high.” Investors are celebrating. Politicians are quoting it.
But behind the numbers lies a more interesting truth: this isn’t a boom built on hype, but a quiet re-rating of Britain’s most global companies; and a signal that value, yield, and patience are back in fashion. We unpack what the FTSE 100 really measures, why it’s rising now, and what this moment reveals about the next era of wealth creation.
From property and pensions to inheritance and tax filings, US–UK connected clients must navigate two of the world’s most complex systems. We spoke with Amy Hill and Swaati Osborne of LGT Wealth Management US to explore how US-UK Connected families can avoid costly missteps and embrace the opportunities of a transatlantic life.
In an era ruled by intangible digits and blockchain cryptography, gold’s timeless allure feels almost archaic. As policy uncertainty festers, inflation concerns linger, and central banks wobble under geopolitical pressures, gold not only retains its shine but is soaring to new heights. Its value today is not merely monetary; it reflects deeper anxieties and strategic recalibrations shaping global power. In this guide we share the historical, political and investment context of the power of gold.
In April 2025, the UK abolished the longstanding non-dom tax regime, extending inheritance tax (IHT) to encompass global assets of UK residents—marking a seismic shift for high-net-worth individuals. Now, amid mounting concerns over an exodus of affluent non-doms and potential damage to the UK’s competitiveness, Chancellor Rachel Reeves is reportedly revisiting this policy. Join us as Hunters Law unpack the implications of this possible U-turn, its impact on trust structures and global tax planning, and what strategic adjustments may be necessary to preserve wealth while maintaining legal resilience.
For a rising generation, sudden wealth, whether born from viral success, entrepreneurial ventures, or unexpected opportunity, can transform lives overnight. Yet with rapid financial gain comes heightened exposure to risk: legal complexities, tax burdens, and personal vulnerability. Expert professional advice is therefore not a luxury, but a necessity, ensuring that fleeting fortune is carefully safeguarded, thoughtfully managed, and translated into lasting prosperity. We spoke with Hunters Law to explore what vulnerability looks like for those affected by sudden wealth.
Dividing pensions on divorce is one of the most overlooked, yet most critical, aspects of financial settlement. While homes and savings often take centre stage, pensions can quietly hold more value than any other asset, shaping your security for decades to come. This guide distils the complexities into clear, practical steps, helping you understand your rights, the options available, and how to protect your future. Whether you are negotiating directly, working with a mediator, or preparing for court, this resource will equip you with the knowledge to make informed, confident decisions.
The UK property market remains one of the world’s most desirable, yet few realise just how complex the tax and legal landscape has become. From SDLT surcharges to inheritance tax traps, the difference between a simple purchase and a sustainable legacy often lies in the structuring. For UK and non-UK residents alike, the right approach can determine whether a townhouse becomes a family asset or a tax burden. Our latest guide unpacks the rules, reliefs, and risks — with scenarios showing how high-net-worth families can optimise for efficiency, succession, and resilience.
Last month, Irwin Mitchell’s Private Client Advisory team published a major new report: The Inheritance Tax Revolution: Regional Insights and What’s Next for UK Estates. Based on a Freedom of Information request to HMRC, the report analyses over 177,000 inheritance tax (IHT) estates across all 121 UK postcode areas. The findings are striking and point to a growing number of families who will be affected by IHT in the coming years. With thresholds frozen and property values rising, the landscape of inheritance is shifting fast. This report offers vital insight into who’s most at risk—and what steps families should be considering now.
One of the biggest challenges facing young professionals today is saving for a home—despite earning well, many still struggle to afford that all-important deposit. As a result, financial support from family members is becoming increasingly common, with not just parents but also grandparents, great-aunts, and uncles stepping in to help first-time buyers get on the property ladder. In this guide, we explore the financial, legal, and tax implications of family-funded house deposits—offering essential guidance on how to structure financial support wisely and avoid common pitfalls.
Resources and perspectives on the legal intersections with personal life.
Including divorce, family law, family dynamics, pensions and separation planning.
Kate Woolhouse spent a decade as a lawyer before leaving to build Hooke, a Mayfair health centre working on a model most of medicine has yet to catch up with. Rather than waiting for something to go wrong, a team of doctors, nutritionists, fitness specialists and psychologists builds a complete picture of a person's risk and resilience, then works with them over years rather than in single, disconnected appointments. Join us as we find out what investing in your lifespan really looks like.
Deeds of variation offer beneficiaries a rare opportunity to redirect inheritances, mitigate tax exposure, and refine estates posthumously. Discover the nuances, considerations, and transformative potential of this often overlooked estate planning tool, as explained by lawyers Rachel Mayston and Sarah Nettleship of Thomson Snell & Passmore.
For women managing complex estates, the question is rarely whether to have a will. It is whether the one they have still reflects the life they are actually living. Payne Hicks Beach's Verity Sherwin and Clarissa Ferguson on the trigger moments, the tax considerations, and why the conversation is easier than most people expect.
Getting engaged is not just the beginning of a wedding, it is the beginning of a financial partnership. From pensions and prenups to trusts, inheritance, and shared goals, the conversations couples have before marriage often shape the strength of the relationship long after the celebrations end. Here, a practical guide to building a financially healthy marriage from the very beginning.
The quiet divorce often involves a long period of private deliberation before any legal process begins. That period carries real financial and legal risk, and most women navigate it without proper advice. This guide and checklist covers five areas: knowing where you stand financially, protecting yourself without overstepping, assembling the right team, understanding the legal process, and managing the conversation with children.
Most people assume the family home is exempt from capital gains tax when they sell. In ordinary circumstances, Private Residence Relief makes that true. In a divorce, it depends on when one spouse moves out, whether a new property is bought and elected before the sale completes, and critically, whether the financial arrangement is captured in a court order. The 2023 reforms significantly improved the position for departing spouses, extending protection beyond the nine-month window and preserving relief on deferred sale arrangements. But those protections are conditional, and the conditions are not well known. This guide sets out what applies in each of the most common scenarios, in plain terms.
Separation changes your tax position in ways most people are not warned about. The timing of when you move assets, whether transfers are made under a court order, how your pension is treated in settlement, and what happens to your income tax filing as a single person, each of these has a direct financial consequence. This guide covers the key taxes that arise in divorce, including the CGT reforms introduced in April 2023, the stamp duty exemption most people do not know exists, and the pension inheritance tax changes coming in April 2027.
Privacy lawyers Hanna Basha and Mark Jones of Payne Hicks Beach join us to map the legal landscape of digital risk, from everyday oversharing and phishing scams to blackmail, deepfakes, and protecting children online. What every woman should know, and where to start.
Prompted by Colin Farrell’s recent reflections on securing future care for his son, we caught up with Caroline Foulger, Partner at Hunters Law, to share a practical and compassionate framework for families navigating uncertainty. It introduces the idea of a support roadmap, a living document that brings clarity around care, decision-making, aspirations, and contingency planning, while emphasising open communication and regular review.
There is a long-standing rule in English succession law under which marriage automatically revokes an existing Will, which is increasingly out of step with modern life. We spoke with Hunters Law to explore how a provision originally intended to protect surviving spouses can, in practice, leave vulnerable individuals exposed, particularly in cases of predatory marriage, and reflect on the recent proposals for reform put forward by the Law Commission, while questioning whether changes to Wills law alone go far enough without wider safeguards.
Money decisions shape family life long before they appear in legal documents. Yet many families still avoid talking about inheritance, care, and long-term planning until they are forced to. Drawing on findings from the Schroders Family and Finances Report 2025, we look at why financial conversations remain difficult, where the biggest gaps in preparation sit, and how earlier, clearer planning can reduce stress, protect relationships, and give families more choice over time.
Cohabiting couples are the fastest-growing family type in the UK, yet the law still treats them, on separation, as if they were strangers. In a forthright conversation with Olivia Piercy, Partner at Hunters Law LLP and a recognised advocate for victim-survivors of domestic abuse, we explored why the system fails families, what reform should look like, and the practical steps you can take today to protect yourself and your children.
Divorce is rarely a single moment; it’s a series of quiet recalibrations.
It begins in the spaces between certainty and fear, when what once felt secure now feels unsustainable, and the question shifts from “Can this be saved?” to “What does a healthy ending look like?”. This guide invites a more considered conversation: one that recognises divorce as both emotional and administrative, personal and procedural. It explores how to separate with intelligence, compassion, and stability: protecting not only wealth, but wellbeing.
For a rising generation, sudden wealth, whether born from viral success, entrepreneurial ventures, or unexpected opportunity, can transform lives overnight. Yet with rapid financial gain comes heightened exposure to risk: legal complexities, tax burdens, and personal vulnerability. Expert professional advice is therefore not a luxury, but a necessity, ensuring that fleeting fortune is carefully safeguarded, thoughtfully managed, and translated into lasting prosperity. We spoke with Hunters Law to explore what vulnerability looks like for those affected by sudden wealth.
Dividing pensions on divorce is one of the most overlooked, yet most critical, aspects of financial settlement. While homes and savings often take centre stage, pensions can quietly hold more value than any other asset, shaping your security for decades to come. This guide distils the complexities into clear, practical steps, helping you understand your rights, the options available, and how to protect your future. Whether you are negotiating directly, working with a mediator, or preparing for court, this resource will equip you with the knowledge to make informed, confident decisions.
Deciding to end a marriage or civil partnership is one of the most significant legal, financial and emotional transitions in life. While it is always an emotional journey, understanding the legal process can provide structure and clarity at a time that can otherwise feel overwhelming. Since the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020, which came into force in April 2022, the process has been simplified, removing the need to assign blame. Today, the only requirement is to confirm that the marriage or partnership has irretrievably broken down. Below, we set out the key stages of the legal process and what you can expect in terms of costs and timing.
Last month, Irwin Mitchell’s Private Client Advisory team published a major new report: The Inheritance Tax Revolution: Regional Insights and What’s Next for UK Estates. Based on a Freedom of Information request to HMRC, the report analyses over 177,000 inheritance tax (IHT) estates across all 121 UK postcode areas. The findings are striking and point to a growing number of families who will be affected by IHT in the coming years. With thresholds frozen and property values rising, the landscape of inheritance is shifting fast. This report offers vital insight into who’s most at risk—and what steps families should be considering now.
As modern family structures evolve, the legal landscape struggles to keep pace. In this insightful exploration, family law Partner Amy Rowe of Hunters Law shares essential guidance on navigating the legal, emotional, and practical realities of alternative paths to parenthood—from co-parenting and donor conception to surrogacy in the UK and abroad. Drawing on both her professional expertise and her own IVF journey, Rowe offers clarity, compassion, and critical advice for anyone considering building a family outside traditional norms. A must-read for prospective parents, legal professionals, and anyone interested in the future of family.
In the realm of wealth stewardship, there are few concepts as elegant as the Acceptance in Lieu (AIL) scheme — a little-known but powerful way to balance inheritance tax liabilities with cultural legacy. For those who hold or manage national heritage assets, AIL presents a unique opportunity: preserve something beautiful for the public good while also protecting your estate’s value. We spoke with Rebecca Bion of Forsters Law to find out how this works — and why it may be an inspired tool for those thinking about wealth, impact, and legacy through a more expansive lens.
Delays in obtaining public sector pension valuations—particularly from the Teachers’ Pension Scheme—are causing significant challenges in divorce proceedings. With legal, financial, and emotional implications for separating couples, and especially for vulnerable individuals, the issue has reached a tipping point. As the NASUWT union launches legal action on behalf of its members, family lawyers and clients alike are watching closely. We spoke with Jo Carr-West, Family Partner at Hunters Law, about why this matters, and what can be done in the meantime.
One of the biggest challenges facing young professionals today is saving for a home—despite earning well, many still struggle to afford that all-important deposit. As a result, financial support from family members is becoming increasingly common, with not just parents but also grandparents, great-aunts, and uncles stepping in to help first-time buyers get on the property ladder. In this guide, we explore the financial, legal, and tax implications of family-funded house deposits—offering essential guidance on how to structure financial support wisely and avoid common pitfalls.
In March 2024, the UK government announced that they intended to make changes to the way in which UK taxes apply to those who have a non-UK connection, such as non-UK domiciled people (non-doms). On 30 October 2024, the government confirmed that changes would go ahead and produced a detailed note and draft legislation that provide much more detail. This note, in partnership with Irwin Mitchell, summarises the changes. The new rules relate only to tax – domicile will continue to exist as a concept that will be important when looking at, for example, succession laws and family law matters.
Divorce is a major life change that affects every part of a person's life. It can be a difficult and emotional journey, especially when it comes to money. Women, in particular, can face unique challenges when it comes to divorce and money.
Stories and reflective pieces that explore how to define wealth beyond money.
Focusing on wellbeing, fulfilment, life transition, and personal expression.
Kate Woolhouse spent a decade as a lawyer before leaving to build Hooke, a Mayfair health centre working on a model most of medicine has yet to catch up with. Rather than waiting for something to go wrong, a team of doctors, nutritionists, fitness specialists and psychologists builds a complete picture of a person's risk and resilience, then works with them over years rather than in single, disconnected appointments. Join us as we find out what investing in your lifespan really looks like.
Getting engaged is not just the beginning of a wedding, it is the beginning of a financial partnership. From pensions and prenups to trusts, inheritance, and shared goals, the conversations couples have before marriage often shape the strength of the relationship long after the celebrations end. Here, a practical guide to building a financially healthy marriage from the very beginning.
Separation changes your tax position in ways most people are not warned about. The timing of when you move assets, whether transfers are made under a court order, how your pension is treated in settlement, and what happens to your income tax filing as a single person, each of these has a direct financial consequence. This guide covers the key taxes that arise in divorce, including the CGT reforms introduced in April 2023, the stamp duty exemption most people do not know exists, and the pension inheritance tax changes coming in April 2027.
Inheritance tax is no longer a problem that belongs exclusively to the wealthy. It is increasingly a problem that belongs to anyone who owns a home in a city, has been saving into a pension for two decades, and has watched their investments grow. And from April 2027, it will become significantly more complex, as unused pension pots are brought into the taxable estate for the first time. The planning window is not infinite. Some of the most effective strategies require years to mature. This guide sets out what the rules are, what is changing, and what you can do now.
The story of wealth in 2026 is not being written in headlines, but in the slow recalibration of markets, materials and assumptions. We welcomed Altus investment Management to share their Market Outlook for 2026, and to explore why easy conditions are giving way to a more exacting environment, and what that means for women thinking seriously about stewardship, resilience and the future of their capital.
Women are holding more wealth than ever before, yet many continue to navigate complex financial and legal systems without the education needed to fully understand them. As women’s wealth grows, so do the risks hidden within investment structures, legal agreements, property ownership, and long-term planning decisions. This piece explores why financial and legal education for women wealth holders is now essential infrastructure, shaping outcomes around control, protection, and intergenerational wealth, and we invite you to read, reflect, and share your perspective.
Women are now one of the fastest-growing economic forces globally, quietly reshaping how wealth is earned, controlled and passed on. Once positioned at the margins of financial decision-making, women are expected to hold nearly half of private wealth within the next decade, changing not only ownership, but the purpose and direction of capital itself. Join us as we explore the historical context behind that shift, the gaps that persist, and why the rise of women’s wealth may prove one of the most significant, and transformative, economic developments of our time.
In a world obsessed with bunkers, biometrics and worst-case AI scenarios, what does it actually mean to live a secure life? In this Essential Series conversation, Kate Bright, CEO and founder of Umbra International Group, reframes security not as guards, gates and gadgets, but as a human, holistic “secure lifestyle” built on Four Pillars: physical, digital, reputational and emotional health. From community WhatsApp groups and Google alerts to cognitive resilience and next-gen online safety, she explores how to move from reactive fear to proactive, everyday peace of mind, and why the real work of security now starts with a conversation, not a crisis.
In The Art of Enough series, we explore what happens when ambition meets contentment, and how women can define wealth and wellness on their own terms. In this conversation, entrepreneur and polar expedition leader Heather Thorkelson shares how she built businesses that sustain a life rather than consume it. From leaving the corporate world to founding Polar Tracks Expeditions and Minimal Impact Cruises, Heather’s story is one of courage, clarity, and conscious growth. Together, we unpack how to find freedom in sufficiency, peace in purpose, and the quiet power of knowing what is truly enough.
In a market where emotion meets investment, taste collides with data, and trust is the true currency, The Art of Value explores the evolving nature of collecting through the eyes of Megan Corcoran Locke, Director at ArtTactic. From shifting definitions of value and the rising role of works on paper to the quiet power of institutional influence and the next generation’s eclectic, impact-driven approach — this article unpacks the complexity, charm, and contradictions of today’s global art market.
As modern family structures evolve, the legal landscape struggles to keep pace. In this insightful exploration, family law Partner Amy Rowe of Hunters Law shares essential guidance on navigating the legal, emotional, and practical realities of alternative paths to parenthood—from co-parenting and donor conception to surrogacy in the UK and abroad. Drawing on both her professional expertise and her own IVF journey, Rowe offers clarity, compassion, and critical advice for anyone considering building a family outside traditional norms. A must-read for prospective parents, legal professionals, and anyone interested in the future of family.
In a world increasingly characterised by division, disruption, and social mistrust, families of wealth face distinct psychological and relational challenges that are frequently minimised or misunderstood within traditional therapeutic frameworks. Systemic therapy, particularly through the lens of cultural competence and cultural humility, offers a uniquely effective framework for working with this population. We sat down with Dr. Paul Hokemeyer, JD, Ph.D. to explore a nuanced examination of the unique psychological and relational challenges faced by individuals and families of wealth.
In the realm of wealth stewardship, there are few concepts as elegant as the Acceptance in Lieu (AIL) scheme — a little-known but powerful way to balance inheritance tax liabilities with cultural legacy. For those who hold or manage national heritage assets, AIL presents a unique opportunity: preserve something beautiful for the public good while also protecting your estate’s value. We spoke with Rebecca Bion of Forsters Law to find out how this works — and why it may be an inspired tool for those thinking about wealth, impact, and legacy through a more expansive lens.
Your smile is one of your most powerful assets, and maintaining excellent oral health goes beyond just brushing and flossing. In this expert guide, award-winning cosmetic dentist and facial aesthetic practitioner Dr. Shaadi Manouchehri shares her insights on achieving a healthy, radiant smile. Whether you're looking to prevent dental issues, enhance your smile, or understand the latest advancements in cosmetic dentistry, this guide offers professional advice to help you make informed decisions about your oral health.
The global landscape of wealth is undergoing a significant shift: the unprecedented rise of women’s wealth. In recent years, women have become formidable economic agents, contributing not only as workers and entrepreneurs but as influential investors and financial decision-makers. This change is reshaping both the financial industry and the broader societal structures in profound ways, read more to find out how.
Recent research on the relationship between wealth and well-being has shed light on the intriguing notion that the effect of wealth on happiness is not a straightforward, linear one. Instead, it appears that there is a threshold beyond which accumulating more wealth may not lead to a proportionate increase in happiness. This phenomenon, often referred to as the diminishing returns of wealth on well-being, suggests that there are other factors at play that contribute significantly to our overall happiness and satisfaction with life.
The quest for financial security, autonomy, and wealth is not gender-exclusive, yet, regrettably, women around the world face unique challenges that significantly impact their financial well-being.
What are the potential legal implications of the menopause? What can employers do to support employees. What steps can employees can take if they consider they are being treated less favourably due to their symptoms? Find out here as we are joined by Catherine Hawkes, employment solicitor at Royds Withy King.
Practical and strategic guidance for planning life milestones and legacies.
Covering education, philanthropy, multi-generational thinking, and structural planning for families.
Kate Woolhouse spent a decade as a lawyer before leaving to build Hooke, a Mayfair health centre working on a model most of medicine has yet to catch up with. Rather than waiting for something to go wrong, a team of doctors, nutritionists, fitness specialists and psychologists builds a complete picture of a person's risk and resilience, then works with them over years rather than in single, disconnected appointments. Join us as we find out what investing in your lifespan really looks like.
Deeds of variation offer beneficiaries a rare opportunity to redirect inheritances, mitigate tax exposure, and refine estates posthumously. Discover the nuances, considerations, and transformative potential of this often overlooked estate planning tool, as explained by lawyers Rachel Mayston and Sarah Nettleship of Thomson Snell & Passmore.
A collection is rarely just a collection. Ahead of our July Dura Curates panel conversation with Payne Hicks Beach at Tramp, we trace the people and the law that gather around the things we love most, from the first museum built by a Babylonian priestess to the divorce claims that can break a collection apart.
The wealthy have always paid for certainty, and for a century the most expensive kind came with a horoscope attached. From J.P. Morgan's astrologer to the colour-coded calendars of the Reagan White House, this is the real history of money and the stars, and what the powerful were actually buying.
For women managing complex estates, the question is rarely whether to have a will. It is whether the one they have still reflects the life they are actually living. Payne Hicks Beach's Verity Sherwin and Clarissa Ferguson on the trigger moments, the tax considerations, and why the conversation is easier than most people expect.
Getting engaged is not just the beginning of a wedding, it is the beginning of a financial partnership. From pensions and prenups to trusts, inheritance, and shared goals, the conversations couples have before marriage often shape the strength of the relationship long after the celebrations end. Here, a practical guide to building a financially healthy marriage from the very beginning.
Investment trusts are one of the most powerful vehicles for long-term wealth building, and share splits are one of their most misunderstood corporate actions. This guide covers what investment trusts are, why their closed-ended structure matters, and exactly what happens to your holding when a trust splits its shares.
Your UK pension is not a qualifying pension in the US. That single fact has a long tail of consequences, from how contributions are taxed in the year they are made, to what forms need filing annually, to how much you ultimately keep when you start drawing an income. Sarah Whitelaw, Partner at Buzzacott, who has spent over two decades advising US citizens and green card holders living in the UK, joined us to cut through it.
The quiet divorce often involves a long period of private deliberation before any legal process begins. That period carries real financial and legal risk, and most women navigate it without proper advice. This guide and checklist covers five areas: knowing where you stand financially, protecting yourself without overstepping, assembling the right team, understanding the legal process, and managing the conversation with children.
Most people assume the family home is exempt from capital gains tax when they sell. In ordinary circumstances, Private Residence Relief makes that true. In a divorce, it depends on when one spouse moves out, whether a new property is bought and elected before the sale completes, and critically, whether the financial arrangement is captured in a court order. The 2023 reforms significantly improved the position for departing spouses, extending protection beyond the nine-month window and preserving relief on deferred sale arrangements. But those protections are conditional, and the conditions are not well known. This guide sets out what applies in each of the most common scenarios, in plain terms.
Separation changes your tax position in ways most people are not warned about. The timing of when you move assets, whether transfers are made under a court order, how your pension is treated in settlement, and what happens to your income tax filing as a single person, each of these has a direct financial consequence. This guide covers the key taxes that arise in divorce, including the CGT reforms introduced in April 2023, the stamp duty exemption most people do not know exists, and the pension inheritance tax changes coming in April 2027.
Privacy lawyers Hanna Basha and Mark Jones of Payne Hicks Beach join us to map the legal landscape of digital risk, from everyday oversharing and phishing scams to blackmail, deepfakes, and protecting children online. What every woman should know, and where to start.
Inheritance tax is no longer a problem that belongs exclusively to the wealthy. It is increasingly a problem that belongs to anyone who owns a home in a city, has been saving into a pension for two decades, and has watched their investments grow. And from April 2027, it will become significantly more complex, as unused pension pots are brought into the taxable estate for the first time. The planning window is not infinite. Some of the most effective strategies require years to mature. This guide sets out what the rules are, what is changing, and what you can do now.
Prompted by Colin Farrell’s recent reflections on securing future care for his son, we caught up with Caroline Foulger, Partner at Hunters Law, to share a practical and compassionate framework for families navigating uncertainty. It introduces the idea of a support roadmap, a living document that brings clarity around care, decision-making, aspirations, and contingency planning, while emphasising open communication and regular review.
There is a long-standing rule in English succession law under which marriage automatically revokes an existing Will, which is increasingly out of step with modern life. We spoke with Hunters Law to explore how a provision originally intended to protect surviving spouses can, in practice, leave vulnerable individuals exposed, particularly in cases of predatory marriage, and reflect on the recent proposals for reform put forward by the Law Commission, while questioning whether changes to Wills law alone go far enough without wider safeguards.
From property and pensions to inheritance and tax filings, US–UK connected clients must navigate two of the world’s most complex systems. We spoke with Amy Hill and Swaati Osborne of LGT Wealth Management US to explore how US-UK Connected families can avoid costly missteps and embrace the opportunities of a transatlantic life.
In a rapidly evolving educational landscape, preparing for elite university admissions demands more than just top grades—it requires foresight, emotional resilience, and a tailored approach. In this insightful piece, Ariana Azad, founder of FigTree Learning, shares expert guidance on how families can strategically future-proof their child’s education for institutions like the Ivy League and Oxbridge. From the evolving role of AI in learning to the importance of critical thinking, subject mastery, and long-term planning, this article offers a grounded, compassionate roadmap for navigating one of the most significant investments in a child’s future.
For 20 years, Prism the Gift Fund has quietly revolutionised philanthropy in the UK—offering high-net-worth donors a fast, flexible, and impactful alternative to traditional foundations. In this conversation, founder and CEO Anna Josse shares insights on the future of giving, the rise of Donor Advised Funds, and why “warm money” matters more than ever.
Philanthropy is undergoing a transformation — from transactional giving to strategic, impact-led partnerships. In this conversation with Jo Shropshire, Co-founder and Managing Director of Benesys, we explore the evolving role of philanthropy, the rise of trust-based giving, and how individuals and businesses alike can align their wealth, values, and influence to create long-term, systemic change. In this article, we explore their strategic approach to philanthropy, the growing movement toward trust-based giving, and what the future holds for those seeking to align wealth with real-world impact.
In a world increasingly characterised by division, disruption, and social mistrust, families of wealth face distinct psychological and relational challenges that are frequently minimised or misunderstood within traditional therapeutic frameworks. Systemic therapy, particularly through the lens of cultural competence and cultural humility, offers a uniquely effective framework for working with this population. We sat down with Dr. Paul Hokemeyer, JD, Ph.D. to explore a nuanced examination of the unique psychological and relational challenges faced by individuals and families of wealth.
In the realm of wealth stewardship, there are few concepts as elegant as the Acceptance in Lieu (AIL) scheme — a little-known but powerful way to balance inheritance tax liabilities with cultural legacy. For those who hold or manage national heritage assets, AIL presents a unique opportunity: preserve something beautiful for the public good while also protecting your estate’s value. We spoke with Rebecca Bion of Forsters Law to find out how this works — and why it may be an inspired tool for those thinking about wealth, impact, and legacy through a more expansive lens.
A study revealed that arguing about money is the top predictor of divorce. These arguments are harder to resolve and more intense than conflicts about children, sex, or in-laws. So, whether you're just starting to deal with financial matters in your relationship or have been navigating it for a while, here's how you can ensure fairness and avoid unpleasant financial surprises.
Content designed to support founders, business owners, and aspiring entrepreneurs.
Through key decisions like structuring, selling, scaling, and legal frameworks.
Behind every deal lies the question: what if something goes wrong? Buyers want certainty, sellers want a clean exit: warranties and indemnities are the levers that help bridge that divide. From litigation risk to undisclosed liabilities, these contractual promises shape the fairness and viability of any transaction. Forsters’ Corporate team explores how they work in practice, and why they remain central to business sales of every size.
For many founders, deciding how to structure that sale can be as complex as building the business itself. In the UK, two main routes exist: a share sale or an asset sale. Each carries distinct legal, tax, and strategic implications that can shape not only the outcome of the deal, but also your legacy as an owner. In this piece, the Corporate team at Forsters breaks down the key differences, advantages, and potential pitfalls of both approaches. Whether you’re at the point of exit, considering your future options, or simply want to understand how businesses change hands, this guide offers a clear and practical starting point.
A business sale is often reduced to numbers: the headline figure, the exit multiple, the deal closed. Yet beneath the surface of every transaction lies a quieter calculus: how much of that value will endure, and in whose hands? In the UK alone, shifting capital gains rules, the shrinking annual allowance, and the uncertain trajectory of reliefs such as Business Asset Disposal Relief (BADR) are rewriting the playbook for entrepreneurs planning their exit. At a moment when more founders than ever are preparing to sell we have created this guide to steer you through the administrative and accounting requirements ahead of an exit.
For many business owners, a sale represents the culmination of years of growth and hard work. Whether the motivation is retirement, strategic exit, or to unlock capital for new ventures, preparation should begin well before a buyer is identified. A thorough internal legal “health check” undertaken within 12 months prior to a potential transaction can reduce deal friction, enhance valuation, and prevent costly delays during the due diligence process. We spoke with Hunters Law to find out some of the common legal pitfalls that owners should address in advance of a potential sale.
If you’d like to contribute to The Edit - send us an email - we’d be happy to hear from you
What are the potential legal implications of the menopause? What can employers do to support employees. What steps can employees can take if they consider they are being treated less favourably due to their symptoms? Find out here as we are joined by Catherine Hawkes, employment solicitor at Royds Withy King.